Spanish police just recently carried out one of their largest operations dubbed “White Tide.” They intercepted almost 10 tonnes of cocaine concealed in a shipment of salt on board a merchant ship. This operation represents yet another incredible accomplishment in the ongoing battle against international drug traffickers. It was run on the cover from Brazilian federal police, US Drug Enforcement Administration, UK’s National Crime Agency and authorities from France and Portugal.
The operation took place approximately 530 kilometers from the Canary Islands. Special operations unit elite officers from the Spanish police force, known as the GRS, rapidly boarded the ship. FBI authorities were alerted to the vessel shortly after its departure from Brazil. They’re going after a multinational, opioid trafficking organization that allegedly has exported 100s of tons of cocaine from South America to Europe.
Spanish police are celebrating the largest cocaine seizure at sea so far in 2024. This year’s interceptions exceeded 13 tons of cocaine stopped from reaching its destination. This builds on the drugs operations’ historic track record, showing the increased and proven commitment to tackle drug trafficking at source. In 2024, Spanish police authorities confiscated an astonishing 123 tons of cocaine. This is a huge leap from 118 tonnes in 2023 and 58 tonnes in 2022.
Police found a record 9,994 kilograms of cocaine concealed in 294 bales aboard the vessel. The contraband was ingeniously disguised with the salt haul. Besides the drugs, law enforcement found a firearm meant to guard the shipment.
“Thanks to this joint effort, Policía Nacional officers recovered 9,994kg of cocaine packed into 294 bundles that had been hidden among the tonnes of salt the ship was transporting, as well as a firearm that the gang was using to protect the shipment.” – Policía Nacional
In the wake of the operation, Spanish authorities arrested 13 people associated with this large trafficking ring. Many days into the journey, the vessel ran out of fuel. It was towed by a tugboat to port in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for a more thorough investigation.
The positive result of this operation demonstrates how international cooperation can effectively address cross-border drug-related criminal enterprises.
“This represents a decisive blow to international criminal networks involved in maritime cocaine trafficking, demonstrating the effectiveness of international police cooperation in the fight against global drug trafficking – and highlighting, once again, the ability of the Policía Nacional to act successfully against criminal organisations with a global reach.” – Policía Nacional